There are several types of coverage available if you were injured in an auto accident. Some of these do not require the other driver to be at fault, as Massachusetts is a no fault state.
PIP – Otherwise known as Personal Injury Protection, this coverage is available to all people who may be injured in vehicles that are registered in Massachusetts. It is typically referred to as “No-Fault” insurance, which means that even if you are at fault in the collision, PIP is available to you for:
- funeral expenses
- medical bills
- 75% of lost wages for anyone injured in your automobile
PIP is capped at $8,000 per person, and may be used in conjunction with your secondary health insurance.
Liability – Also known as 20/40 coverage. This means that every vehicle insured in Massachusetts has coverage of up to $20,000 for each person injured and is capped at $40,000 for all people injured in the accident. This coverage will pay for:
- medical expenses
- pain and suffering
- lost wages
This is ultimately paid for by the insurance company of the at-fault driver.
Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist – If your injuries are worth more than the coverage available from the other driver’s insurance company or if that driver does not have insurance, you may be able to collect underinsured or uninsured motorist coverage from the policy on the car you were in at the time of the collision, or from an automobile insured and owned by someone else who resides in the same household that you live in.
Medical Payments – Med Pay is not a mandatory coverage. However, if you have this coverage, an additional $5,000 (or more) is available to pay for your medical expenses or the medical expenses of anyone injured in your vehicle.
We highly recommend that you consult with an experienced Massachusetts Car Accident lawyer prior to the other driver’s insurance company in order gain a full understanding of the coverages available to compensate you for your injuries. Call us today at 1-800-992-6878 or fill out a contact form online.